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bhall237's review
3.0
“When I set out to write the Brian books I was concerned that everything that happened to Brian should be based on reality, or as near reality as fiction could be. I did not want him to do things that wouldn't or couldn't really happen in his situation. Consequently I decided to write only of things that had happened to me or things I purposely did to make certain they would work for Brian.”
This was a really great companion piece to the Brian series from Gary Paulsen and I think it brought a lot of really crucial insight into the character of Brian throughout the books. I think the quote above is the most important aspect and piece of information of this book, and I think that’s why the five books that follow the story of Brian feel so realistic and so grounded in reality. It’s because they are reality, of course, there’s dramatization involved, but for the most part, everything that happens in the books happened to Gary Paulsen. I think that if you’ve read the Brian series, or even Hatchet for that matter, this offers some fascinating stories and insight from the author.
This was a really great companion piece to the Brian series from Gary Paulsen and I think it brought a lot of really crucial insight into the character of Brian throughout the books. I think the quote above is the most important aspect and piece of information of this book, and I think that’s why the five books that follow the story of Brian feel so realistic and so grounded in reality. It’s because they are reality, of course, there’s dramatization involved, but for the most part, everything that happens in the books happened to Gary Paulsen. I think that if you’ve read the Brian series, or even Hatchet for that matter, this offers some fascinating stories and insight from the author.
julie_ann_harper_1633's review
4.0
I absolutely loved reading Gary Paulson when I was growing up and being able to read about the craziness that is his life was fascinating. So many ridiculous things have happened to him and he does a great job of sharing them.
wordworm3's review
4.0
Though it makes me wonder why anyone would want to adventure out in the wilderness, it leaves me in awe of those who do. From a writing perspective, it's a beautiful work for teaching kids about writing as it includes a variety of engaging stories told using more literary techniques than I could keep track of and approachable language.
bahlamber's review against another edition
5.0
I've always thought that survivalist skills were essential for everyone. Though my reasons are more "prepper" related, Paulsen really brings to light how important it can be period. You never know when you might be stranded somewhere and, while I might have a better shot than the average Joe, I know I'm not even remotely prepared to live off the land. I love Paulsen's attitude towards always learning. Definitely makes me want to work on my wilderness skills and botony and scavenging!
seeseamus's review
5.0
Gary Paulsen might be one of the most interesting people of all time. A genuinely shocking recount of just how much he has endured, learned, and appreciated about the wilderness. The guy watched people get torn apart by sharks at the age of 7, and his life only gets MORE interesting, I mean, come on.
sarahtonin_bby's review
4.0
i enjoyed this way more than i thought i would. it was fascinating and gary paulson has lived such an interesting life. i’ll honestly reread any time i consider writing a scene where people hunt for food in the wilderness.